Opioid analgesics
The controlled pain relievers
Moderate to severe pain that milder analgesics haven't controlled.
Binds opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, changing how pain signals are received.
The 5 opioid analgesics in the PTCB Top 200
| Generic | Brand | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Acetaminophen / Hydrocodone | Norco / Vicodin | moderate-severe pain |
| Tramadol | Ultram | moderate pain |
| Oxycodone | OxyContin | chronic severe pain |
| Acetaminophen / Oxycodone | Percocet | moderate-severe pain |
| Morphine | MS Contin | severe chronic pain |
Tap any generic name for its full drug guide — brand↔generic, side effects, interactions and the exam tip.
What to know for the exam
- check_circleMost are Schedule II; tramadol and some combinations are Schedule IV.
- check_circleMany products combine an opioid with acetaminophen, which caps the safe daily dose.
- check_circleConstipation is expected and is usually managed from the start.
- check_circleNaloxone is co-dispensed with many opioid prescriptions.
Boxed warnings for addiction, abuse and life-threatening respiratory depression — and a separate warning against combining with benzodiazepines.
On a combination product, the acetaminophen ceiling is what limits the total daily dose.
Drill opioid analgesics the way the PTCE asks them
RxReflex groups the Top 200 drugs into classes like this one, then quizzes you on brand↔generic, class, side effects and interactions. Plus a guided Learn path, pharmacy math and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Frequently asked
What drugs are in the opioid analgesics class? add
Acetaminophen / Hydrocodone, Tramadol, Oxycodone, Acetaminophen / Oxycodone, Morphine. All are in the PTCB Top 200.
What are opioid analgesics used for? add
Moderate to severe pain that milder analgesics haven't controlled.
How do opioid analgesics work? add
Binds opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, changing how pain signals are received.
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. For education only — not medical advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the PTCB.